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Dieffenbachia “Dumb Cane”

Most Dieffenbachias have sturdy, almost cane-like stems that bear large, smooth, oblong, pointed leaves on sheathed stalks.

Latin name
Dieffenbachia

Pronunciation
(diff-en-BAK-ee-ah)

Common name
Dumb Cane, Leopard Lily

Origin
Central and South America, Mexico, Caribbean

As new leaves unfurl from the centre, the plant spreads outward with a slight downward arch.

The leaves are basically green with splashes of cream or white on either side of the pronounced central vein. In some varieties (e.g. “Camilla”) the marking becomes so extensive that only small areas along the leaf margin remain green.

The plant is harmful if eaten, causing severe mouth and throat irritation. It should not be used in areas accessible to vulnerable people.

Several species are used as indoor plants; amongst the more popular are: Dieffenbachia amoena, Dieffenbachia maculata, Dieffenbachia seguina. A wide range of hybrids is also available. Most Dieffenbachias go under the common name “Dumb cane”, although “Leopard lily” is sometimes used for varieties with very mottled leaves.

Did you know?

Dieffenbachia was nicknamed “Dumb Cane” because its sap can swell the mouth and throat so much that speaking becomes difficult.

Dieffenbachia is toxic to both humans and pets. Ingestion can lead to irritation of the mouth, tongue, and throat, excessive salivation, difficulty swallowing, and swelling. In severe cases, it can restrict breathing. The sap may also cause skin irritation. Keep plants out of reach of children and animals, and wash hands after handling.

caring for your plant

Light

.Does best in medium to high light. Benefits from direct sunlight in winter, but in summer this gives the leaves a bleached, washed-out appearance.

Watering

The growing medium should be kept moist, but allowed to dry out between watering. Should be kept drier under cool, poorly lit conditions, otherwise stem rot may occur.

Pruning

Dead or damaged leaves should be cut off at the base using a sharp knife or secateurs.

Feeding

A weak solution of fertilizer can be added to the water every time you water the plant.

pest & diseases

Prone to attack by the Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), scale insects and mealybug.

Where the Dieffenbachia originates from

This species originates in Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Our plants are grown in Ecoponic, an alternative to soil. Officially known as a vulkaponic substrate, it replaces traditional compost with a clean, mineral-based medium that helps protect peatlands.

According to the IUCN UK Peatland Programme, “A loss of only 5% of UK peatland carbon would be equal to the UK’s annual greenhouse gas emissions.” As well as storing carbon, the natural wetlands where peat is found are critical to the survival of plants and wildlife. Ecoponic also improves plant health and uses water more efficiently.

Find out more about Ecoponic here.

Buy one of my cousins from the nursery

Did you know?

Research from the University of Exeter found that offices with plants can increase productivity by up to 15% while also improving concentration and job satisfaction.